Football Shoes: the top Christmas gifts

Predator, F50, Mercurial or Morelia: which profile

Each range caters to a playing style. The Predator, launched by adidas in 1994 based on an idea from former Liverpool player Craig Johnston, retains its rubber bumps on the upper to better brush and control the ball; the FT versions add a folded tongue, a nod to the original models. The F50, which appeared before Euro 2004 and was relaunched in 2024, is designed with a thin and lightweight upper for speedy players, just like the Nike Mercurial Superfly. The Mizuno Morelia range, born in 1985, is built on soft kangaroo leather and offers a very natural touch on the ball.

Other top gifts

The top gifts are also available in:

• Shirts and Tracksuits.
• Sneakers.
• Coats and Jackets.
• Sports Accessories, balls, shin guards and bags.
• Connected Devices.
• Motorbike / Bike Helmets.

All the top gifts are gathered on the top gifts page.

Elite, Pro, League, Club: the range levels

The same shoe exists in several range levels, and the choice depends on age and practice. The Elite level takes the pair from professionals, featuring a very thin upper and a stiff, lightweight sole, for an experienced player who trains regularly. The Pro level is similar but with slightly thicker materials. The League and Club levels focus on durability and comfort from the first outing: they are well-suited for children, who change shoe sizes every year, and weekend players. The design remains that of the reference model, which is just as pleasing under the Christmas tree.

FG, AG, TF or indoor sole: depending on the surface

The letters following the name indicate the sole, which should be checked before gifting. FG refers to moulded studs for natural grass; AG indicates more numerous and shorter studs for synthetic turf, which limit knee locks; TF features a sole with small studs for hard pitches and five-a-side football; MG is a compromise between grass and synthetic. Indoor models, with flat rubber soles, are used in halls and futsal. For a child who plays on multiple surfaces, the FG/MG sole remains the most versatile. The LL code indicates a version without laces.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in good plans, promotions, clearance sales, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The key moments of the year follow a steady order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently asked questions

How can I find out a child's shoe size without ruining the surprise?

Trace the outline of their foot on a sheet of paper while standing, or measure the insole of a pair they already wear. Add half a centimetre for margin and refer to the size guide in centimetres.

Why are football boots often pink or fluorescent?

Bright colours are primarily used to stand out: a fluorescent pair pops against the green grass, both on TV and in photos. Brands regularly refresh their colourways, and pink has become one of the most visible.

Can you play indoors with studs?

No: studs slip on the floor, damage it and are banned in most gyms. Indoors, a flat non-marking rubber sole is needed, like that of indoor models, which grip without leaving marks.

How to make a pair of studs last longer?

Clean them after every match and let them air dry, stuffed with newspaper, away from radiators that harden materials and detach the sole. Reserve them for the surface they are designed for.

Should you break in new studs before a match?

Yes, wear them during two or three training sessions before the first match. Synthetic uppers break in quickly, while leather like that of the Morelia softens in a few sessions and shapes to the foot.